The programme was launched in response to demand among Estonian language learners for opportunities to practice speaking, on everyday topics, with an Estonian speaker in a one-to-one context. Learners may not have such opportunities if their language practice is limited to a classroom setting or to essential transactions in public settings (in shops and restaurants, for example). The programme therefore addresses a core challenge faced by language learners in Estonia, contributing to language acquisition as well as fostering positive social relationships and contributing to stronger societal integration.

The opportunity to practice language skills, i.e. to converse directly and freely about everyday topics, is an indispensable part of language learning. Mentors with a strong command of Estonian communicate via online channels or phone with Estonian language learners, who are at a fluency level of A2 or above, a few times a week over three months. Teachers of the Estonian language at the Integration Foundation instruct mentors on best practices and language learning methodology through short trainings and supporting materials. Most mentors are from Estonia, but Estonians from around the world have also participated in the projects to support learners. To further support language mentors, regular meetings before, during, and after the programme season are held so that they can exchange information, establish a sense of community, and share best practices. 

Over the course of the 5 years, over 2 600 conversation pairs have been arranged and a total of 5 365 people have participated in the programme. 

The outcomes of the programme are measured using different parameters, including (but not limited to) satisfaction, perceived benefits, and the retention rate. Satisfaction with the programme was measured on a 1-5 scale, and results showed that satisfaction was high on both sides, with the average score being higher than 4. 

The overwhelming majority of participants confirmed that they have benefited from the programme in one way or another: 55% respondents said they improved their language skills, 51% that they feel more confident, and 40% that they found a new friend/acquaintance. With each continuous week of participation, participants were more likely to say they felt they could participate in a similar activity in the future.  

The Institute of Baltic Studies conducted an analysis of the programme (not yet publicly available). Key findings include: 

• The programme has been effective and efficient. 
• The program has a complementary and synergistic role in the overall system of Estonian language learning, which includes language classes, cafes, and online resources. 
• There is strong demand for the programme, as indicated by high numbers of participants
• There is sufficient supply of mentors to allow the programme to successfully function. 
• Satisfaction with the programme among mentors has been high consistently across the 4 years of its existence. 

The primary beneficiaries of the initiative are Estonian language learners for whom the chance to practice their language skills is critical to their successful language acquisition. Learners were mostly Estonian residents (newly arrived migrants at large), but people from Germany, US, Finland, Russia, and elsewhere also participated. Volunteering in the programme as a mentor also provides benefits, including the satisfaction of helping others, taking part in a big initiative, and getting to know someone from a different culture. The Integration Foundation also particularly encourages Estonian expats to take part in the programme to 'keep in touch' with Estonia. 

The activities are carried out with the support of the European Union’s 2021–2027 Cohesion Policy and Internal Security Funds, within the framework of Project No. 2021-2027.4.07.23-0006 of Decree No. 80 of the Minister of Culture of 15 March 2023: ‘Conditions for granting support for carrying out activities supporting integration, including adaptation, in Estonian society’.